The Raiders are in the midst of a full-scale roster tear down, which precedes a rebuild that will take time. Head coach Jon Gruden decided it was necessary, and has the job security required to execute a long-term vision that, at times, sacrifices short-term gain.
Owner Mark Davis told ESPN he believes poor drafts, in 2016 and 2017, especially, have put the Raiders in a difficult spot and necessitated a complete roster overhaul to stay right with the salary cap. This will be the second rebuilding project since Davis took control following his father Al Davis’ death in 2011.